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Auto alternatives for the 21st centuryFri, 31 Jul 2015 13:14:21 +0000en-UShourly1http://wordpress.org/?v=4.2.2Honda HR-V Set To Launch In Los Angeleshttp://www.hybridcars.com/honda-hr-v-set-to-launch-in-los-angeles/
http://www.hybridcars.com/honda-hr-v-set-to-launch-in-los-angeles/#commentsTue, 21 Oct 2014 04:05:32 +0000http://www.hybridcars.com/?p=207434Honda revealed its all-new Honda HR-V entry crossover will make its North American debut at the 2014 Los Angeles Auto Show on Nov. 19. The HR-V, already known as the Vezel in other markets, will serve as the entry point to the Honda light truck lineup; Honda said it is positioned below the CR-V in […]

]]>Honda revealed its all-new Honda HR-V entry crossover will make its North American debut at the 2014 Los Angeles Auto Show on Nov. 19.

The HR-V, already known as the Vezel in other markets, will serve as the entry point to the Honda light truck lineup; Honda said it is positioned below the CR-V in both price and size and competing in an all-new segment for the brand.

Honda added the HR-V is anticipated to launch this winter. Built on the same global compact platform that underpins the Fit, the HR-V is said to feature a versatile and spacious interior helped by a center fuel tank layout.

The HR-V will be equipped with the Honda-exclusive Magic Seat, which allows for multiple seating configurations and the ability to fold the second row seat completely flat for added cargo space, explained the company.

The HR-V or Vezel is available in hybrid version in other markets. We’ll have to wait for the reveal in Los Angeles to know exactly the powertrain choices to be offered in North America.

]]>http://www.hybridcars.com/honda-hr-v-set-to-launch-in-los-angeles/feed/0Niro Hybrid Concept Hints At Future B-Segment Kiahttp://www.hybridcars.com/niro-hybrid-concept-hints-at-future-b-segment-kia/
http://www.hybridcars.com/niro-hybrid-concept-hints-at-future-b-segment-kia/#commentsFri, 07 Feb 2014 05:39:36 +0000http://www.hybridcars.com/?p=120145Kia’s Niro hybrid urban lifestyle concept vehicle unveiled last September at the Frankfurt Motor Show made its U.S. debut at the 2014 Chicago Auto Show. Kia explained the Niro hints at a possible future B-segment contender ready to take on the city environment with style and fun-to-drive attitude. The rally raid-like Niro also expands on […]

]]>Kia’s Niro hybrid urban lifestyle concept vehicle unveiled last September at the Frankfurt Motor Show made its U.S. debut at the 2014 Chicago Auto Show.

Kia explained the Niro hints at a possible future B-segment contender ready to take on the city environment with style and fun-to-drive attitude. The rally raid-like Niro also expands on Kia’s alternative propulsion story with its hybrid electric powertrain working through a four-wheel drive system.

“Ten years ago people wanted understated style in the SUV market, but increasingly, as more people migrate to the B-segment, they are looking for strong character and individuality,” said Gregory Guillaume, Chief Designer, Kia Design Center Europe. “It may have the looks of a Dakar [Rally] contender, but Niro has a strong premium feel thanks to our innovative use of advanced and modern materials that mix brawn with spirit to deliver a playful vehicle ready to be part of anyone’s active lifestyle.”

Kia added the Niro may be a designers’ eye view of a future B-segment contender, but that doesn’t mean it is a pure flight of fancy. This concept comes with a variant of Kia’s turbocharged 1.6-liter “Gamma” engine good for 160 horsepower. The engine and a seven-speed, dual-clutch transmission serve the front wheels while an electric hybrid system powered by regenerative braking delivers up to 45 horsepower to the rear wheels when road conditions require extra grip.